You Can Help Create a World with Less Cancer

For the more than 13 million cancer survivors in America, birthdays are a big deal. And, they should be. They are a symbol of life and victory. You can help create more birthdays – and fight back against cancer – by enrolling in the American Cancer Society’s new research study called the Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3).

The goal of CPS-3 is to better understand how factors such as lifestyle, environment and genetics can cause or prevent cancer. Ultimately, the American Cancer Society hopes the results will help eliminate cancer as a major health concern for future generations.

Past Studies Yielded Significant Findings

This is the third study of its kind. Past studies have resulted in breakthrough discoveries, such as:

The link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer.

The impact of air pollution on cardiopulmonary conditions (which led to more stringent limits on particulate air pollution).

The link between aspirin use and reduced risk of colon cancer.

The link between postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy and various gynecologic cancers (such as breast and ovarian cancer).

The link between physical activity and lower risk of various cancers (including breast, colon, and aggressive prostate cancer).

Who’s Eligible to Participate?

The American Cancer Society’s goal is to enroll 300,000 people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds to participate in Cancer Prevention Study-3.

To be eligible:

You must be between 30 and 65 years of age. Both men and women are encouraged to enroll.

You should have no personal history of cancer (not including basal or squamous cell skin cancer)

You need to agree to make a long-term commitment to the study, which simply involves completing periodic follow-up questionnaires.

How to Enroll in CPS-3

Enrollment opportunities are offered in communities across the US and Puerto Rico – often in conjunction with a Relay for Life event. For more information about CPS-3 and enrollment locations and times, email CPS3@cancer.org or phone 1-888-604-5888.

What to Expect When During Enrollment

Enrolling in CPS-3 takes 20-30 minutes and typically involves:

Reading and signing a consent form.

Completing a survey.

Providing a waist circumference measurement.

Providing a small blood sample (similar to a blood draw during a visit to the doctor).

During the course of the study, you’ll receive periodic follow-up surveys about lifestyle, behaviors and other factors related to your health. You’ll also receive annual newsletters about ongoing research from cancer prevention studies.

A Small Effort Can Make a Big Difference

Participating in Cancer Prevention Study-3 doesn’t involve a huge time commitment. All it requires of you is diligent follow-up and a desire to help the American Cancer Society understand how to prevent cancer.

The payoff? CPS-3 will surely save lives and give people more of a precious resource – time: time with their families and friends, more memories, more celebrations and more birthdays.

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